Re: Poll: Do you think people should receive ranking in aikido for reasons outside of their technical ability?

Hmm...I suspect that even if there isn't an official "They helped out at x number of dojo events so they get +y points for their test" section in the "testing manual" it probably does exist within the testing committee.

A similar situation is the exact opposite, where those who are considered to be more dedicated and are going the "instructor" route may get "-y points" since expectations are higher.

I suppose this means that every test is a "case-by-case" situation and nothing should be taken for granted, included those factors which drive human decision making...

--Michael, using Aikido to get a better grip on human nature

Hiriki no yosei 3 - The kihon that makes your head ache instead of your legs